And Barnes unashamedy traverses sex of all kinds from the sluttish to the sublime in songs which have odd melodic twists, instantly memorable pop hooks and choruses, odd sonic flourishes, changes of mood . . .

"We can do it soft core if you want, but you should know I go both ways," he sings on the improbably poppy and impossibly named For Our Elegant Caste. Later he also wants to be your love, hurt your pride, paint your nails, kiss your friends . . .

Like an ambi-sexual Kool and the Gang, an even more specific Prince and a shameless porn star, this album is by turns hilariously rude, coquettish, louche, funky and just a big bag of fun.

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